Safeguarding Teeth With Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are an effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially on the biting surfaces of molars, which often have natural pits and grooves that can trap food and bacteria. These areas are difficult to clean with regular brushing, making them more vulnerable to decay.
Although all teeth are covered by enamel, the bacteria in these deep grooves can erode the enamel, leading to cavities. These cavities can result in costly and painful treatments. While everyone can benefit from sealants, they are particularly recommended for children as their adult teeth emerge to replace primary ones. Applying sealants early offers extra protection, helping children stay cavity-free through their school years, saving families money, and preventing the discomfort and distractions caused by toothaches and dental visits.
What is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a simple and painless procedure where a clear or tooth-colored acrylic coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. This “seals” the deep grooves where decay is most likely to begin. Sealants are one of the most effective and affordable preventive treatments available, costing less than half the price of traditional fillings and requiring no drilling or anesthesia.
Sealants are durable and can last for several years. Studies show that the risk of cavities in sealed teeth is reduced by up to 50% within the first five years after application. However, if a sealant becomes damaged or falls out, we will check it at every cleaning appointment and may recommend reapplication.
Procedure Overview
Applying a sealant is a quick and pain-free procedure, often performed on molars. First, the dentist thoroughly cleans the tooth’s biting surface, ensuring the grooves are free of debris. The surface may then be slightly roughened to help the sealant adhere better. After rinsing and drying the tooth, the dentist applies the sealant and allows it to dry completely, completing the process in just a few minutes.
In some high-risk cases, sealants may also be applied to a child’s primary (baby) teeth. While temporary, primary teeth play an essential role in guiding the permanent adult teeth into place. Severe decay leading to the early loss or extraction of primary teeth can disrupt the alignment of adult teeth. By applying sealants to at-risk primary teeth, we help ensure a smoother transition to healthy adult teeth.
Maintaining Healthy Teeth With Sealants
In addition to sealants, regular cleanings, diligent at-home brushing, and consistent fluoride use are all essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing cavities. Sealants are an important preventive tool that, when combined with proper dental care, can help keep your teeth cavity-free for years to come.
